“Synapse,” the latest single from folk rock band Jake Bracey & The Mountain Laurels, is a deep, resonating cut from the City of Brotherly Love.
Starting off cozy, Bracey enters with an understated, driving acoustic-led sound while transitioning to vocally lamenting on road weariness. During the first chorus, the ensemble provides a soaring accompaniment that gives way to a tinge of crunchy reverb afterwards. The dramatic rise and fall of this track is what provides “Synapse” with its bite, giving Bracey range to ride the melodic waves.
Bracey has a remarkable vocal ability to match the song’s fluctuating mood. At the beginning, he is resolute along with the simplified acoustic rock intro. In turn, Bracey hits the right moments to punctuate the song’s higher, poignant moments such as the chorus. In addition, Bracey’s voice cracks spot on the word “frustration” while wailing over the top of a down tempo jam before the melody crests in the next chorus.
A brief, yet jagged guitar gives way to a softer, twangy note upon the song’s exit. Both of which encapsulate the rotation between raucous and subtle that “Synapse” provides throughout. Both aspects blend together well, completing what is a well-rounded, folk rock jam.
Overall, “Synapse” is an enjoyable listen from start to finish. From setting the table with inconspicuous, acoustic-laden rock, to soaring vocals and sweeping melodic shifts, Jake Bracey & The Mountain Laurels thrive on avoiding complacency at all times.
Written by Travis Boyer
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